A security guard killed in the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego is being remembered as a father of eight who died trying to protect worshippers and children inside the mosque.

Speaking to CNN, friend Sam Hamideh said the victim was well known in the local Muslim community for his kindness and dedication to helping others.

“He wasn’t just some security guard. Every single time you crossed him, he always put a smile on your face, he always brought that energy of everything’s good, having that strong faith in God and always being kind,” Hamideh told CNN.

The mosque houses a school for children from kindergarten to third grade. Hamideh said the guard would greet families every morning during school drop-offs.

“The morning of the shooting, the security guard told Hamideh’s wife, ‘Say hello to Sam,’” CNN reported.

“I didn’t know it was his goodbye. That was crushing,” he added.

Hamideh believes his friend knowingly put himself in danger to stop the gunmen from reaching children inside the building.

“I know that he knew he was sacrificing his life for the kids. Because if he didn’t take that bullet, they would easily walk up the stairs”, Hamideh said.

Police said three people were killed in the shooting at the San Diego mosque on Monday.